1. Make sure your car has enough tire tread

Tire treads play an important role in improving grip, especially on wet ground. The tread acts as a channel for dispersing water and allows optimal contact between the rubber and the road. Worn tires or bare tires-the latter have almost no groves-can’t drain water at all and will surf or coast. Make sure that the tread depth is above the minimum level-it should be at least 2 mm deep. Most tires will have tread wear indicators-small transverse ribs set in the main longitudinal grooves, about 1.5 to 2 mm high. Once the tire surface is flush with these ribs, it is time to change to a new tire. Worn tires are also more prone to punctures and may even burst in some cases, so make sure to replace the tire before or when the tread depth is the smallest.

2. Make sure the brake function is normal

Worn or flooded brakes are a major hazard.

In all driving conditions, properly working brakes are important. In the rainy season, this becomes particularly important, because the parking distance of a vehicle in a wet environment tends to increase, so keeping your brakes in the best condition is a big advantage. In addition, when driving in heavy rain or just after driving through a large puddle, make sure to dry the brakes by tapping them intermittently. Now, new cars come standard with ABS, which makes braking in wet conditions easier and makes you safer in the rain.

3. Wiper blade

It is important to maintain the wiper and ensure that there is enough wiper cleaning fluid.

When driving in the rainy season, what you want is a clean, streak-free windshield when you turn on the wipers. Streaks can hinder your vision during the day and can also cause headlights to refract and distract. Therefore, please make sure that your wiper blades are wiped clean. In addition, fill up the wiper cleaning fluid to remove the mud splashed by passing cars.

4. Use lights when needed

The use of hazard lights in the rain is a serious no-no.

In low visibility situations, it is best to drive with headlights and fog lights (if included with the car), as this will make it easier for people around you to see you. So it is best to check all external lights before the monsoon. Although some people do have the idea of ​​using hazard lights in this situation, it is best to avoid this situation. Use hazard lights or flashing lights only when the vehicle is parked in a dangerous or vulnerable place. By using these lights in the rain, a slow-moving car may be mistaken for a stopped car.

5. Control distance and speed

Keeping a distance from the vehicle in front helps to avoid accidents.

As mentioned above, the braking distance on wet roads will increase, so it is best to keep a greater distance from the vehicle in front and control the speed of the vehicle, especially when it is raining. This not only provides you with enough braking space, but also more reaction time, which can save lives. It will also provide you with a better view of the road ahead and facilitate handling of increased potholes and debris.

6. Escape plan

Hope for the best, but also expect the worst. Know how to escape your car in an emergency.

In the worst case, it pays to know how to escape the car. For example, many cars have an internal luggage release device that you can enter by folding the rear seats to prevent the door from getting stuck. Another option is to break the windows, use a car hammer, or if nothing else, metal sliders for headrests or feet. It also helps to have other convenient parts, such as seat belt cutters, flashlights, and certified fire extinguishers.

7. Driving on flooded streets

Don’t fall into flooded streets; keep moving.

Given that our monsoon rains range from light to heavy and can be very unpredictable, sometimes you may find yourself needing to walk through streets with water. Before starting, it is best to assess the depth of the water. You can do this by watching other cars wading through the water. If necessary, please wait for a while and observe some more.

When you start to move the joystick to a lower gear, it is best to be in the first gear and keep the engine speed high to prevent water from entering the exhaust pipe, which can cause engine damage. If you suspect that water has entered the exhaust pipe, do not try to start the car.

Once passed, don’t forget to lightly tap the pedal while moving to dry the brakes.

8. It is always best to recharge

Since traffic jams are inevitable when it rains, make sure to prepare fuel for your car and yourself.

Normally, you are more likely to experience traffic jams during the monsoon season. Be prepared to wait a long time in your car, so make sure you have gas before you set off. The last thing you need to do is find out that you are in trouble because of running out of fuel. In addition, it’s good to bring some water and snacks, a lot of music, a spare mobile phone charger or power bank, a change of clothes, an umbrella or even a towel with you.

See also:

Basic advice for cycling during the monsoon